The Reason the Grand Sumo Tournament is Being Held in the UK Capital
This Prestigious Sumo Competition
Venue: The Royal Albert Hall, London. Schedule: October 15th through 19th
Exploring Japan's National Sport
Sumo embodies the traditional sport of Japan, blending tradition, discipline and Shinto religious rituals with origins more than 1,000 years.
This combat sport involves two competitors – called rikishi – competing within a circular arena – a dohyo – spanning 4.55 meters in diameter.
Traditional ceremonies are performed before and after every match, emphasizing the ceremonial aspects in sumo.
Customarily before a match, a hole is made at the center of the ring and filled with nuts, squid, seaweed and sake by Shinto priests.
This opening gets sealed, containing within divine presence. The rikishi subsequently execute a ritual stamp with hand clapping to drive off bad spirits.
Elite sumo is governed a strict hierarchy, with competitors involved dedicate their entire lives to it – living and training communally.
Why London?
This Major Sumo Event is taking place outside of Japan for just the second time, with the competition occurring in London from Wednesday, 15 October through October 19th.
London with this iconic venue also hosted the 1991 edition – marking the initial occasion such an event took place outside Japan in the sport's history.
Explaining the reasoning for the international competition, the Japan Sumo Association chair expressed the intention to "convey with London audiences sumo's attraction – a historic Japanese tradition".
The sport has experienced substantial growth in international interest globally recently, and a rare international tournament could further boost the appeal of Japanese culture abroad.
Sumo Bout Mechanics
The fundamental regulations of sumo are quite simple. The bout concludes when a rikishi is forced out of the dohyo or touches the floor using anything besides the sole of his feet.
Bouts might end almost instantly or continue several minutes.
There exist two main fighting styles. Pusher-thrusters generally push their opponents out of the ring by force, while belt-fighters prefer to grapple their opponent and use judo-like throws.
Elite wrestlers frequently excel in various techniques adjusting against different styles.
Sumo includes dozens of victory moves, ranging from dramatic throws strategic evasions. The variety of techniques and strategies maintains fan interest, meaning unexpected results can occur in any bout.
Size categories are not used in sumo, making it normal to see rikishi with significant size differences. Sumo rankings determine matchups instead of body measurements.
Although female athletes do compete in non-professional sumo globally, they're excluded from elite competitions including major venues.
Life as a Sumo Wrestler
Professional rikishi reside and practice in communal facilities known as heya, under a stable master.
Everyday life of a rikishi centers completely on sumo. Early mornings dedicated to training, then consuming a substantial lunch the traditional stew – a high-protein dish aimed at building mass – and an afternoon nap.
Typical rikishi eats approximately six to 10 bowls per meal – approximately 10,000 calories – although legendary stories of extreme consumption exist in sumo history.
Rikishi intentionally gain weight for competitive advantage during matches. Despite their size, they possess remarkable flexibility, quick movements and explosive power.
Virtually every aspect of rikishi life are regulated through their training house and the Sumo Association – creating a distinctive existence among athletic professions.
Competitive standing affects their payment, accommodation options including support staff.
Younger less established rikishi handle chores in the stable, whereas senior ones enjoy preferred treatment.
Competitive standings get determined by results during yearly events. Successful competitors advance, while those losing descend in standing.
Before each tournament, updated rankings gets published – a traditional document showing everyone's status within the sport.
The highest level features the title of Yokozuna – the ultimate achievement. These champions embody the spirit of sumo – beyond mere competition.
Who Becomes a Rikishi
The sport includes 600 rikishi competing professionally, with most from Japan.
International competitors have been involved prominently for decades, including Mongolian wrestlers achieving dominance currently.
Top champions feature global participants, including wrestlers multiple countries reaching elite status.
In recent news, young international aspirants have journeyed to the homeland seeking professional sumo careers.
